George Skelton argues that the 10% increase in state withholding from paychecks is really a tax increase since "to actually recapture the money and keep it...you'll have to quit working or die." LAT

The new USC/L.A. Times Poll continues its first roll-out with results of a survey on state issues. LAT

Simon Dumenco writes about Nikki Finke that "Hollywood has known all along just how secretly ordinary Finke's schtick often is -- because Hollywood execs supply her with both the press releases and the spin. They know that, bitchy bravura aside, she can often be steered one way or another just as easily as reporters at Variety or the Hollywood Reporter or any other hack on a deadline." Ad Age

Metrolink is considering a second hike in less than six months due to falling ridership and revenue, and rising expenses. LAT

Several LAPD officers have come under attack on the street recently, causing concern at the police union. Fox 11

L.A. Live wants to expand big-time: 332,618 square feet of office space, a broadcasting studio that could accommodate a nationwide cable television network, another 275-room hotel and a 25-story residential building, plus more. Downtown News

While the war of words over the imminent closure of the Motion Picture and Television Home hospital and long-term care center has been loud, messy and visceral, the grounds remain tidy and tranquil. The Wrap

Former Presidents Bill Clinton and George W. Bush pulled out of a joint appearance for American Jewish University in February at the Gibson Amphitheatre in Universal City (not "University City," as the Times reported) over a dispute with the promoter. LAT

Caltrans workers removed barricades Saturday on the southbound 405's carpool lane from the Santa Monica Freeway interchange south to the Marina Freeway. The northbound carpool lane will open later this month. CBS 2

Activist photographer Discarted was detained by sheriff's deputies while taking pictures in the Hollywood and Western Metro station. He has video and badge numbers, and he's pissed. Discarted

Los Angeles radio legend Dr. Demento, aka Barret Hansen, and Westwood One founder Norman Pattiz were inducted into the National Radio Hall of Fame.

Christine Pelisek looks inside the world of South L.A.'s casitas, "secret speakeasies filled with Mexican and other Central American legal and illegal immigrants....[that] operate in what appear to be shuttered, recession-emptied storefronts or hollowed-out homes." LA Weekly

The pilot who buzzed Santa Monica pier in a Soviet-built military jet has lost his license and prompted questions. LAT

Former KIngs star Luc Robitaillie will be inducted into the NHL Hall of Fame this afternoon. Helene Elliott, TSN, CBC